Multi-car - Long-Term Update

'99 Infiniti G20TThe inescapable allure of an entry-level luxury sport sedan had us ordering a G20t before it was even available to drive. Starting in the low 20s, this four-door touts such essential standard features as power windows/door locks/mirrors, six-speaker Bose AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo, and anti-lock brakes. We upgraded to leather with a convenience package. While the standard five-speed manual would undoubtedly be the sporting choice, life in traffic-clogged L.A. means commuters prefer an automatic transmission. The touring model does provide more responsive handling without a punishing ride, making it essential to add a mild dose of sport flavoring. Power comes, eventually, from a 2.0-liter/140-horsepower inline four evolved from the Sentra and former G20 powerplants, inspiring logbook comments such as, "Accelerates like an Altima with the parking brake on." The one-mode-only transmission has received logbook digs for hunting more often than Senior Road Test Editor Mac DeMere. All told, the bottom-line price and modest performance of this upscale commuter leaves us wishing for less of the former and more of the latter.